“With over two thirds of councils spending more than they planned to on tackling homelessness, it is vital the Government follows this with long-term funding for homeless prevention in the Spending Review."
Responding to the Budget announcement of funding to reduce rough sleeping, more investment in the Affordable Homes Programme, and the cutting of interest rates on lending for social housing by 1 per cent, Cllr David Renard, the Local Government Association’s housing spokesman, said:
“Greater investment in the Affordable Homes Programme is a positive step, but with more than a million households on council waiting lists, and over 86,000 households in temporary accommodation, it is vital the programme is re-focussed towards building homes for social rent.
“We are also pleased the Government acted on our calls to cut the interest rates for investment in social housing.
“It is good the Government has announced further funding to get people sleeping rough off the streets and into safe and warm accommodation, including extra money to address substance misuse.
“With over two thirds of councils spending more than they planned to on tackling homelessness, it is vital the Government follows this with long-term funding for homeless prevention in the Spending Review.
“It should also restore local housing allowance rates to cover at least the lowest third of market rents and give councils the powers to invest in new homes for those that need them, by reforming Right to Buy and allowing councils to keep receipts in full and set discounts locally.”